Looking for a better 223 magazine option

[YukonRob]

I recently looked into a 223 trainer for the first time, and I'm a bit dismayed at the dismal magazine options that seem to be available.
I'll probably end up using several of the MDT polymer 223 mags, but I'm quite surprised that no one has came up with a more efficient magazine option.
I get the excessive dimension front to back, as the mag has to fit in a standard short action mag well. That extra length is part of the reason I'm building a 223 on a 308 length action.
The (mostly) single stack nature, and the height/width of the mags seem ludicrously large for the meager 10 round capacity. It sure seems that there should exist some AW type mag for a 223 bolt gun, or at least a version like ARC's double stack/single feed 308 mags.

Am I overlooking some workaround to obtain a ~20 round capacity 223 mag in the form factor somewhere in-between a 10 round AI and a 10 round AW mag?

I own a dremel, a file, a feed lip bending tool, various epoxies, welder, etc. and I'm not shy about using them in the slightest. I'm not scared to experiment, but if someone has pursued this project before it would be nice to get a head start or a point in the right direction.

 

[jackinfl]

I wish Magpul would make an AICS style 223 magazine

 

[7WSMShooter]

I've got 3 different types. AI, MDT, and another I forgot who made it. On my sons .223 in a chassis

the MDT works the best after a bit of hand fitting.

 

[7WSMShooter]

Also have a custom Howa/Manners/CDI precision
Setup in 300 BO and the .223 AI mags work best in it.

 

[7WSMShooter]

I wouldn't want a longer mag. would get in the way
Shooting Prone or off the bench. Would really like a short 5 round one.

 

[redneckbmxer24]

If you want the best, go Accurate. They work. Rugers version is also supposed to be pretty good although I haven't personally used them.

 

[nexusfire]

I have always used AI mags. Out of 16 of them, I got a bad lot of 4 from another member here. Called AI and they sent 4 new ones and didn't even ask for the old ones back.

 

[7WSMShooter]

That's the other I picked up, the accurate. I need to test that one on the .223

 

[YukonRob]

So it sounds like no one has ventured out into a double stack setup... darn!

I have kinda a hybrid use in mind. I’m not building my 223AI to launch “heavy” match bullets. I’m building a 1:9 twist more or less for a varmint slaying rig, but with some occasional use for practice or low recoil fun. I’m copying Ed’s idea of mirroring his trainer to his match rifle, so it’ll be setup with the same A5 stock, same length/profile barrel and same scope as my 260 match rifle. I figure that way while I’m giggling my head off exploding prairie dogs I can be practicing improvised shooting positions, target acquisition, and all that good stuff.

Sounds like most guys just are having good luck with the Accurate Mag mags... I like the price in the MDT’s so I was kinda hoping they were the deal.

 

[7WSMShooter]

The MDT mags are working the best on my sons
.223 Rem chassis rifle. I'll check the accurate again tomorrow.

 

[YukonRob]

I wouldn't want a longer mag. would get in the way
Shooting Prone or off the bench. Would really like a short 5 round one.

Yea I agree! My main complaint is a lack of capacity. I think the size of a 20 round AR mag is perfect. I kinda got used to “operating” with a couple 20 round AR mags in each of my cargo pockets. I could hustle around and get lots of shots my friends were missing because they were reloading.

 

[YukonRob]

The MDT mags are working the best on my sons
.223 Rem chassis rifle. I'll check the accurate again tomorrow.

I’m glad to hear that!
The price is way more attractive, and I kinda like the polymer mags for less rattle.

 

[TheOE800]

I hope I don’t regret building a .223 Nucleus.

 

[Chili47]

I hope I don’t regret building a .223 Nucleus.

The good thing is if you dont like it you can always change the bolt head.

 

[YukonRob]

I guess I could get one of these...

but it sure does seem a big waste to build a 223 on a 308 length action and not gain any extra room to seat the bullet out longer!

 

[YukonRob]

I hope I don’t regret building a .223 Nucleus.

How could you regret such an awesome action?!
Interchangeable bolt heads, so if you end up wishing you didn't pick 223, just swap it out and drive on!

 

[TheOE800]

Sure, but then it impinges on the capabilities I bought the AX for. The more rifles the merrier, I guess.

 

[TorF]

If Sako botherd to make a 20 round mag for the 85 they would kill the market for 223 rifles.
AIAW double stack mags are almost a dropin to the 308 75/85 action.

 

[Sogan]

I hope I don’t regret building a .223 Nucleus.

I’m going back and forth daily on this. To go big with a custom or just get a tikka. I’m sure you’ll love it tho and could sell it in a day if you didn’t want to swap bolt heads

 

[YukonRob]

I decided to go with a Kelbley Atlas tactical action myself. The value on those at $999 is awesome... comes with a pinned scope rail and recoil lug and already nitride coated.

Thanks for the input on the magazines guys. I guess AI mag length ammo and 20 round capacity just isn't doable.
I'd be pretty much starting from scratch, and i'm not that into it. If I got a 10 round AW mag the internal width would be to wide for the 223 rounds to stack correctly, even if I could get the lips bent around and narrowed up to hold them in.